Chongqing House offers a culinary journey deeply rooted in the vibrant and bold flavors of Chongqing, a city famed for its fiery cuisine and rich cultural heritage. This menu captures the essence of Sichuan’s hallmark spiciness while showcasing a diverse array of dishes that balance heat with intricate seasoning.
Each plate at Chongqing House is crafted to evoke the bustling street food scenes and traditional family recipes that define the region’s gastronomy. Whether you crave the intense numbing sensation of Sichuan peppercorns or the comforting warmth of a hot pot, the menu promises an authentic experience that tantalizes the palate and warms the soul.
From appetizers to main courses and specialty drinks, the selection reflects a deep respect for Chongqing’s culinary traditions, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold, layered flavors. Diners can explore a variety of textures and tastes, from crispy fried delights to slow-cooked stews, all infused with the signature heat that makes Chongqing cuisine so beloved worldwide.
The menu also highlights dishes that cater to different spice tolerance levels, ensuring that both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts find something to delight their taste buds.
Chongqing House’s commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish, where each ingredient plays a vital role in building the complex flavor profiles. The menu is not just a list of offerings but a celebration of Chongqing’s rich food culture, inviting diners to experience the city’s culinary spirit no matter where they are.
Appetizers and Small Bites
Starting your meal at Chongqing House with appetizers offers a perfect introduction to the bold flavors characteristic of the region. These small dishes are designed to awaken the palate, combining textures and spices that prepare you for the heartier courses ahead.
The appetizer section features a variety of traditional favorites such as spicy cold noodles, marinated beef slices, and crispy fried tofu. Each dish is seasoned with Chongqing’s iconic blend of chili oil, garlic, and Sichuan peppercorns, delivering a unique balance of heat and numbing sensations.
Many of these bites are ideal for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience that echoes the social aspect of Chongqing’s street food culture. The dishes also vary in heat level, giving diners the freedom to explore spiciness at their own pace.
Popular Appetizers
- Spicy Cold Noodles: Served chilled with a bright chili oil dressing and fresh scallions.
- Marinated Beef Slices: Tender beef seasoned with garlic, soy, and Sichuan peppercorns.
- Crispy Fried Tofu: Light and crunchy, paired with a spicy dipping sauce.
- Pickled Vegetables: A tangy, refreshing contrast to spicy dishes.
“A great appetizer not only excites the palate but sets the tone for the entire meal. At Chongqing House, each bite is a vibrant invitation to explore more.” — Executive Chef
Signature Hot Pot Selections
The hot pot section embodies the heart and soul of Chongqing cuisine, featuring steaming pots filled with a variety of ingredients simmering in rich, spicy broths. This interactive dining style is both communal and deeply satisfying, allowing diners to customize their experience.
Chongqing House offers several types of hot pot bases, from the intensely spicy “Mala” broth to milder herbal options, catering to different preferences without compromising on flavor. The hot pot is perfect for adventurous eaters who enjoy bold flavors and hands-on dining.
The menu includes a wide range of fresh meats, vegetables, and tofu to cook in the broth. The ingredients are carefully selected to maintain authenticity while ensuring quality and freshness, making each hot pot session memorable.
Hot Pot Broth Varieties
| Broth Type | Flavor Profile | Recommended For |
| Mala (Spicy Numbing) | Intense heat with Sichuan peppercorn numbing effect | Spice lovers and adventurous diners |
| Herbal | Mild, aromatic with medicinal herbs | Guests seeking lighter, soothing flavors |
| Tomato | Sweet and tangy with a subtle spice | Those preferring less heat but rich taste |
- Fresh sliced beef and lamb
- Assorted mushrooms and leafy greens
- Tofu varieties including firm and silky
- Handmade meatballs and fish balls
“Hot pot is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and togetherness. Each simmering pot tells a story of Chongqing’s culinary heritage.” — Culinary Historian
Main Courses: Meat and Seafood
The main courses highlight the versatility of Chongqing cuisine through an array of meat and seafood dishes. These plates showcase bold spices, balanced by fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Signature dishes include fiery stir-fried chicken, braised pork belly, and river fish cooked in spicy sauces. Each recipe emphasizes layering flavors, from the initial marination to the final garnishing with fresh herbs and crushed chili.
Seafood items are prepared to enhance their natural sweetness while adding a spicy kick typical of the region. The meat dishes often feature tender cuts paired with robust sauces, creating a memorable dining experience.
Noteworthy Dishes
- Chongqing Spicy Chicken (La Zi Ji): Bite-sized fried chicken coated in dried chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns.
- Braised Pork Belly: Slowly cooked until tender in a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Spicy River Fish: Fresh fish simmered in a fragrant chili broth with garlic and ginger.
- Grilled Fish with Chili Sauce: Charcoal-grilled fish topped with a spicy chili and herb mixture.
The complexity of these dishes lies in the careful balance between heat, aroma, and texture. Each bite offers a layered taste experience that is both fiery and comforting.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Chongqing House thoughtfully includes vegetarian and vegan options that capture the essence of the region’s bold flavors without compromising on taste. These dishes rely heavily on fresh vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, all prepared with signature spices.
Vegetarian diners can enjoy dishes such as spicy eggplant, mapo tofu made with plant-based ingredients, and stir-fried greens infused with garlic and chili oil. The kitchen uses traditional methods to ensure that these offerings are as flavorful and satisfying as their meat counterparts.
The use of Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil remains prominent, delivering the iconic numbing heat that defines Chongqing cuisine while respecting dietary preferences.
Popular Plant-Based Dishes
- Spicy Eggplant: Soft eggplant cooked in a savory chili-garlic sauce.
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan): Silky tofu in a spicy bean paste sauce with mushrooms.
- Stir-Fried Morning Glory: Crisp water spinach sautéed with garlic and chili.
- Cold Mixed Vegetables: A refreshing salad with pickled cucumbers and carrots.
“Vegetarian doesn’t mean flavorless. Our plant-based dishes honor Chongqing’s spice-forward identity with vibrant, satisfying tastes.” — Head Chef
Rice, Noodles, and Staples
Complementing the bold main dishes, the staples section offers a selection of rice and noodle dishes that are integral to Chongqing dining. These provide a perfect vehicle for soaking up sauces and balancing intense flavors.
Noodles are a particular highlight, served in various styles from spicy dry noodles to soup-based varieties. Rice dishes include fragrant jasmine rice and chili-infused fried rice, which pair well with the heavier meat and seafood options.
The preparation techniques emphasize simplicity and authenticity, allowing the natural flavors of the grains and noodles to shine through alongside the robust seasonings.
Noodle and Rice Highlights
| Dish | Description | Recommended Pairing |
| Spicy Dry Noodles | Noodles tossed in chili oil, garlic, and scallions | Appetizers or light main dishes |
| Beef Noodle Soup | Hearty broth with tender beef slices and noodles | Perfect for cooler days or as a main course |
| Chili Fried Rice | Fragrant rice stir-fried with chili, eggs, and vegetables | Pairs well with milder main dishes |
- Hand-pulled noodles
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Rice cakes sautéed with chili and vegetables
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Though Chongqing cuisine is primarily known for its spicy and savory dishes, the dessert section offers delightful sweet treats that provide a pleasant contrast. These options are often influenced by traditional Chinese desserts and adapted to include subtle regional flavors.
Typical desserts include sweet soups, sesame balls, and chilled fruit dishes that cleanse the palate after a fiery meal. Ingredients like red beans, black sesame, and coconut milk are commonly used to create rich, satisfying endings.
The desserts balance sweetness with texture, often combining chewy, soft, or crunchy elements to keep the dining experience interesting until the very last bite.
Popular Desserts
- Black Sesame Soup: A warm, smooth dessert with a nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- Sweet Red Bean Soup: Lightly sweetened and served warm or cold.
- Fried Sesame Balls: Crispy on the outside with a sweet filling inside.
- Chilled Mango Pudding: Refreshing and creamy, perfect for hot days.
“A good dessert not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also harmonizes with the meal’s bold flavors, leaving diners with a lasting impression.” — Pastry Chef
Beverages and Traditional Drinks
The beverage menu at Chongqing House complements the food perfectly, offering both traditional and modern drinks that enhance the dining experience. From soothing teas to spicy cocktails, the beverages provide balance and refreshment.
Traditional Chinese teas such as jasmine, green tea, and pu-erh are available to cleanse the palate and aid digestion. In addition, house-made drinks infused with ginger, chrysanthemum, or goji berries offer health benefits alongside their flavors.
For those seeking something more spirited, Chongqing House offers unique cocktails and mocktails that integrate spicy or aromatic elements, reflecting the region’s love for vibrant tastes.
Featured Drinks
| Drink | Description | Best Paired With |
| Chrysanthemum Tea | Light, floral tea that refreshes the palate | Spicy appetizers and main dishes |
| Ginger Honey Drink | Warm and soothing with a spicy kick | Cold noodle dishes and fried foods |
| Spicy Sichuan Margarita | A cocktail blending tequila with chili and lime | Grilled meats and hot pot |
- Traditional Chinese teas
- House-made herbal infusions
- Signature spicy cocktails
- Refreshing non-alcoholic options
“The right drink can transform a meal, amplifying flavors and providing moments of refreshment amidst the heat.” — Beverage Director
Conclusion
The Chongqing House menu is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the heart of one of China’s most dynamic culinary regions. Each section offers a thoughtfully curated selection that respects tradition while inviting diners to explore new tastes and sensations.
From the fiery appetizers to the communal hot pot experience and the carefully balanced desserts, every dish and drink has been crafted to deliver authenticity and excitement.
Whether you are a spice enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Chongqing House provides an inclusive dining environment where bold heat meets delicate balance. The menu’s diversity ensures that every guest can find something to love, from plant-based options to indulgent meat dishes.
Paired with a well-rounded beverage list, the experience becomes more than just a meal—it’s an immersion into the rich culinary culture of Chongqing.
By embracing bold flavors and emphasizing quality, Chongqing House stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Sichuanese cuisine. It invites food lovers to savor the complex harmony of spice, aroma, and tradition, making each visit a memorable celebration of Chinese gastronomy.
